CPR Songs for Chest Compressions

Date Published: March 26, 2025

Performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) correctly can mean the difference between life and death. One of the most critical aspects of CPR is maintaining the correct chest compression rate.

Whether you are a trained professional or a bystander, using music as a reference not only certifies proper CPR technique but also empowers you, increasing your confidence in the event of an emergency.

Best Songs for CPR (100 – 120 BPM)

The key to using songs for CPR is choosing one with a tempo within the recommended range to support the best resuscitation efforts.

Many songs have a BPM between 100 and 120, making them ideal for CPR. The most famous example is the Bee Gees' "Stayin’ Alive," which has a BPM of 103 — right in the recommended range.

Top CPR Songs to add to your CPR Playlist:

These songs act as a mental cue during CPR, confirming you’re providing consistent, high-quality chest compressions — crucial in maintaining proper blood circulation.

How Music Aids CPR Performance

Music can effectively reinforce proper CPR techniques because it helps individuals regulate their pace in high-stress situations, providing a reassuring, steady rhythm. When someone is in cardiac arrest, the responder might unintentionally speed up or slow down chest compressions due to stress or uncertainty.

A familiar song with the correct BPM can act as a built-in metronome to help keep compressions consistent and adequate.

Many bystanders hesitate to perform CPR or other life-saving measures due to fear of doing it incorrectly or freezing under pressure. Music can reduce hesitation in emergencies by providing a familiar and structured rhythm. This familiarity builds confidence and reduces uncertainty.

How to Use Music for CPR Training

Integrating music into training is beneficial whether you’re learning CPR or refreshing your skills.

• Create a CPR Playlist: Having a playlist of CPR-friendly songs is a helpful refresher.
• Mentally Recall a Song in Emergencies: If you ever need to perform CPR, thinking of one of these songs will keep your compressions on track.
• Take a CPR Class: Many CPR training courses incorporate music to reinforce the importance of maintaining the proper tempo.

Benefits of CPR Training

Music is an excellent CPR resource, but it does not replace the importance of formal CPR training. CPR training provides hands-on experience, preparing you to maintain the proper rhythm while applying the correct pressure and technique. Training also builds confidence — allowing you to act quickly in an emergency rather than hesitate.

Additionally, CPR training can also cover using an automated external defibrillator (AED), a crucial tool in cardiac arrest situations, and teaches the differences in CPR on adults, children and infants. By learning these skills, you’ll increase emergency preparedness — assessing emergencies, calling for help and providing life-saving aid until professional medical assistance arrives.